Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
The content reflects the contrasting concerns of pilots and non-pilots regarding the weather, especially during an unusually warm December. While non-pilots enjoyed sunny conditions, pilots struggled with windy weather affecting flying opportunities. The author focused on restoring an aircraft, the Buttercup, incorporating design improvements and electric flaps, and enjoyed a successful flying day after calmer winds.
The year has swiftly passed, marked by club activities such as fly-ins and COPA for Kids. We revamped our website and enjoyed engaging speakers. As I celebrate 10 years in the club, I urge members to renew and nominate new leaders. Looking forward to upcoming events despite the cold.
The year ended with a memorable flying experience over the Kananaskis Valley during a visit from the author's parents. After a clear Boxing Day, the author and friends enjoyed a smooth flight, overcoming oil temperature regulation challenges with a new adjustable air intake for the engine. The joyful day concluded with successful flight procedures and exploration.
In January 2008, a meeting at SAIT’s Art Smith Aerospace Center showcased Canada's aircraft maintenance training, led by instructors Brian Goddard and Rod Deneve. The author visited friends, flew to Cooking Lake, and admired Gil's new Murphy Elite. The flight and sight-seeing over Edmonton were memorable, despite some noise issues in the aircraft.
In May, I transitioned from Encana, working extensively on my cottage near Bashaw while attending aviation events in Calgary. Highlights included a memorable flight to Vulcan and participating in a Poker Run. I also sold my Cessna 150 after six months, leaving Carstairs quieter with fellow aviators grounded.
March in Alberta was unusually cold and snowy, but the author managed to log some flight training hours, including a turbulent experience landing at Springbank. After 12 years in IT, they decided to pursue their long-held dream of becoming an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, applying to SAIT for a two-year program.
Time is integral to aviation, influencing landings and measuring flight experience. Pilots value the journey and the sights seen at slower speeds, cherishing moments in the air. Understanding time’s significance helps retain memories of flights and connections with other aviators, emphasizing its value as a precious gift rather than a competition.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 